Jacqui De Lacey - Are managing contractors the problem, or the solution?

Welcome to Episode 86 of Good Will Hunters from the Development Policy Centre. Today on the show I speak to Jacqui De Lacy. Jacqui is the Managing Director of Abt Associates Australia, one of Australia’s major development contractors. Prior to joining Abt, Jacqui was the head of AusAid in Indonesia, and she’s had a range of other high level roles in the aid program. Jacqui is also on the board of UNICEF Australia. Jacqui and I discuss the criticisms of facilities and managing contractors, in particular in the context of PNG. We also discuss the reform that’s required in our aid program, to promote partnerships over economic dependence. Jacqui shares her strong views on why aid to Indonesia should not be reduced. Finally, Jacqui reflects on her extensive career in development and how she remains positive, as well as her advice for the next generation looking to forge their careers. Jacqui’s advice is some of the most tangible and actionable advice I’ve ever heard so definitely stay tuned until the end! Some of Jacqui's recent articles include: https://devpolicy.org/in-search-of-a-strategic-aid-program-5-messages-for-the-new-australian-aid-policy-20200318/ https://devpolicy.org/facilities-deserve-a-place-in-development-20171113/ Articles on managing contractors and facilities include: https://devpolicy.org/the-problem-with-facilities-and-aid-20190502/ https://devpolicy.org/improving-the-monitoring-and-evaluation-of-facilities-in-the-australian-aid-program-20190723/ The Development Policy Centre is running its annual fundraising appeal. The Centre provides critical support to this podcast and of course runs the Devpolicy Blog and undertakes important research around aid and development. If you appreciate this podcast and the Devpolicy blog, please make a tax deductible donation at devpolicy.org/donate. Enjoy the episode, The GWH Team